Here’s what Thai EV drivers really think about Thailand’s EV infrastructure!

When it comes to EVs, everyone’s got something to say—whether it's praise or a list of pros and cons. But one thing’s for sure: the EV market is on the fast track. To get the real scoop, we surveyed 200 Thai EV owners and lessees to uncover their thoughts, preferences, and what they’re hoping to see in the future of Thailand’s EV infrastructure. Scroll down to see what they had to say!

Are government incentives making a difference?

Government incentives are a key driver of Thailand’s EV market, but awareness varies across different subsidies:

• 150,000 baht subsidy: Nearly 2 in 5 Thais (39%) know about this for EVs with a battery capacity over 30kWh.
• 70,000 baht subsidy: Only 27% are aware of this for EVs with a 10 to 30 kWh battery capacity.
• 18,000 baht subsidy: Around 30% know about this for electric motorcycles offered between 2022-2023.
• Import duty exemption: Just 27% are aware of the exemption on key electrical components available from 2022-2025.

Despite these incentives, over a third of the population (34%) is still unaware of them.

However, even though there is a clear knowledge gap, the impact is undeniable. A solid 54% of Thais say that government subsidies were the game-changer in their decision to go electric. This sentiment is even more apparent in the 45-54 age group, with 74% citing the incentives as a major factor in their choice.

How often are Thais charging their EVs, and where?

Let’s talk charging habits. More than half (51%) of Thai EV drivers charge their vehicles several times a week. But the 45-54 age group is a bit different—they’re more likely to charge just once a week (40%), substantially higher than the overall average (13%). This group also relies more on public charging stations, with 50% making use of them, compared to the 38% average.

On the flip side, home is where the heart (and the charger) is for most Thais. Over 1 in 2 (53%) prefer the ease of home charging, with the 25-34 age group (69%) leading the pack.

Is the EV charging infrastructure up to speed?

Opinions on Thailand’s EV charging infrastructure are mixed. Nearly half (48%) rate it as ‘good,’ while 21% think its ‘excellent’, 28% say it’s ‘fair’, and 4% think it’s ‘poor,’ signaling some satisfaction but also room for growth.

What are the biggest roadblocks for EV drivers?

• Not enough charging stations (64%)
• Long wait times (54%)
• Inconvenient locations (43%)

Despite these hurdles, 44% of Thais are giving a nod of approval to the availability of charging stations in their area. Younger drivers (16-24) are the most content, with 28% ‘very satisfied,’ compared to an overall average of 16%. However, the older crowd (45-54) has a different opinion, with 59% expressing dissatisfaction.

Charging speed is another sticking point—while 50% are okay with the current pace at public stations, 35% aren’t so thrilled, especially the 45-54 age group, where dissatisfaction hits 59%.

Looking ahead, 47% of drivers are optimistic that the government will step up and improve the EV infrastructure, though 28% aren’t so sure.

What’s on Thai EV drivers’ future wishlist?

So, what’s on the horizon for Thailand’s EV scene? Here’s what drivers are eager to see over the next five years:

• Faster charging speeds (41%)
• More charging stations (39%)
• Lower charging costs (24%)

As Thailand’s EV market keeps growing, meeting these demands will be crucial. Government incentives have already laid down some solid groundwork, and understanding charging habits gives us a clear view of the road ahead. Now, it’s all about enhancing the infrastructure to keep pace with the rising number of electric vehicles hitting the streets.

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